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During the late 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to Europe with a friend. Since my travel mate was exploring pursuing a master’s degree in the Big Apple, we had planned a two-week stay there en route to London.

We reached the graduate housing, a big ten-floor structure on the Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.

Beside me was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He asked me what I my profession was, and I told him that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.

He noted that there was an research lab at Columbia University – right next door to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I ought to seek a position with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was soon departing to Europe and, more critically, I lacked a US visa.

A day later I went out exploring, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The engineering student walked over to me and told me that he had set up a meeting for me with the leader of the research team at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I went to the meeting – but immediately informed my prospective employer that I didn’t have a visa, so I was unable to accept the role.

In typical New York fashion – a place where anything feels possible – she responded: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.

I held that position for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a postgrad program in international relations.

I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his name, but his incredible act of kindness altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the bravery or self-belief to contact anyone at an prestigious college and request employment. And, I had long dreamed to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that educational benefit.

What's more, that job in New York led me to a role in Europe where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m always appreciative.

Can you recall the Kindest Gesture a Someone You Didn't Know Has Ever Done for You?

Whether it's brightening your mood to altering your path, we are interested in random meetings that have stuck with you.

Feel free to recount your experience if you are an adult, without revealing your identity if you wish. Your responses are secure, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.